Death toll from Nigeria fuel truck explosion rises to 98

The death toll from a fuel truck explosion in Nigeria has risen to 98, according to the regional emergency agency in Niger State. Sixty-nine people with injuries have been hospitalized.

The incident occurred approximately 50 kilometers from Abuja, the capital, when a tanker truck exploded on Saturday after it stalled and overturned for unknown reasons. Groups attempting to siphon gasoline from the vehicle triggered an explosion, resulting in a fire.

Initial reports mentioned at least 70 deaths. “After clearing the debris of the exploded truck, we discovered 12 more bodies, bringing the total number of deaths to 98,” stated the director of the emergency health organization.

Eighty victims have been buried in a mass grave near a hospital. There have been frequent accidents involving tankers; last year, two incidents occurred.

In September, 48 people died in a fuel truck explosion, and a month later, 147 people were killed in a tanker explosion. Nigeria, Africa’s largest oil producer, has seen fuel prices and other living costs sharply increase in recent years.

Source: NOS

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